Product Offerings
Product Categories:
Consulting and Professional Services, Logistics, Information Technology and Software, Snack Foods
Products:
Services: Export support, Market development, Technical training, Trade missions, Business meetings
Group Export Agri-Food, based in Sainte-Julie, Quebec, is Canada's largest agri-food export association dedicated exclusively to supporting Quebec-based food and beverage companies in accessing and expanding into international markets. Founded in 1990, the organization plays a central role in enhancing the global competitiveness of the province’s agri-food industry by offering tailored export services, international promotion programs, and strategic market intelligence.
Core Business
Group Export Agri-Food serves as a strategic partner for agri-food companies by facilitating their integration into global markets. The organization works closely with Quebec exporters to prepare them for export readiness, connect them with international buyers, and assist in navigating regulatory, logistical, and cultural barriers. Acting as a liaison between industry and global trade platforms, Group Export provides a comprehensive ecosystem that supports export growth, capacity building, and international visibility for its members.
Product and Service Offerings
Although Group Export Agri-Food does not produce or sell products itself, it provides an array of business development services to its members, which include food and beverage manufacturers, processors, and cooperatives:
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Export Development Services
- Export planning and personalized consulting
- Regulatory compliance assistance (labeling, certifications, documentation)
- Training and workshops on global trade trends
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International Promotion
- Trade missions and exhibitions (e.g., SIAL, Anuga, Fancy Food Show)
- B2B matchmaking with vetted international buyers
- Online product showcases and digital trade platforms
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Market Intelligence and Analysis
- Tailored market studies
- Country-specific regulatory briefs
- Competitive benchmarking for product categories
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Financial Support Guidance
- Information on provincial and federal export funding programs
- Assistance with application processes (e.g., CanExport)
Group Export also offers a unique digital platform—GoExport—which serves as an interactive hub for members to access export tools, connect with buyers, and manage trade show participation.
Specialization and USP
Group Export Agri-Food is uniquely positioned in the Canadian market due to:
- Sector Exclusivity: Entirely focused on agri-food and beverage companies, unlike general trade associations
- Quebec Network Strength: Represents over 500 exporting agri-food businesses from the province
- Trade Show Expertise: Organizes collective pavilions and logistics for members at key global food shows
- Customized Services: Tailors market entry strategies for each member based on their size, product type, and growth stage
- Global Buyer Relationships: Established networks in over 40 countries
The organization’s specialized focus and hands-on approach give Quebec exporters a competitive edge in international markets.
Financial Insights
As a non-profit organization supported by government and member contributions, Group Export Agri-Food does not operate for profit. However, its impact is measurable in terms of export growth facilitated:
- Membership Base: Over 500 companies representing 75% of Quebec’s agri-food exports
- Export Value Supported: Estimated over CAD $1 billion annually in member export transactions
- Funding Partners: Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation du Québec (MAPAQ), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and other trade bodies
The organization’s funding model ensures that members access high-value services at subsidized rates, maximizing ROI for export investment.
Shipment and Export Records
While Group Export Agri-Food does not directly handle shipments, it plays a vital facilitation role:
- Export Destinations Supported: United States, China, Japan, South Korea, France, UK, UAE, Mexico, and more
- Product Categories Covered:
- Frozen and fresh seafood
- Dairy and cheese
- Meat and poultry
- Maple and sweet products
- Bakery, snacks, beverages, and plant-based products
- Trade Show Presence: Facilitates participation in over 20 international trade shows annually
Its matchmaking programs have resulted in hundreds of successful partnerships and distribution agreements worldwide.
Target Markets
Group Export Agri-Food strategically supports member expansion into:
- North America (U.S. and Mexico)
- Europe (France, Germany, UK)
- Asia-Pacific (Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore)
- Middle East and North Africa
- Latin America (Brazil, Chile, Colombia)
These markets are prioritized based on consumer demand for premium Canadian food products, market accessibility, and regulatory compatibility.
Capabilities
- In-house trade advisors with multilingual capabilities
- Export diagnostics and readiness assessments
- Digital marketing campaigns for exporters
- Representation in global food trade missions
- Training on export logistics, documentation, and packaging compliance
Group Export also collaborates with Canadian embassies and trade commissioners to ensure soft landing and brand exposure in new markets.
Certifications and Compliance
Group Export Agri-Food ensures that its member companies are supported in meeting international compliance requirements:
- FSMA and FDA (USA)
- EU Labeling and Allergen Requirements
- Organic, Halal, and Kosher Certifications
- Canadian Export Health Certificates and CFIA Regulations
- Fair Trade and Sustainability Standards
It provides regulatory updates and direct guidance to help members maintain compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
Customer Testimonials
Although the organization does not deal with end consumers, member companies regularly highlight its value:
“Group Export helped us go from domestic-only to selling in four countries in two years. Their support was vital for compliance and buyer introductions.”
— Export Manager, Quebec-Based Dairy Company
“They organized our booth at SIAL and handled everything—from logistics to on-site translation. We met three buyers that became long-term clients.”
— CEO, Artisanal Snack Manufacturer
Major Achievements
- Over 500 active member companies in agri-food exports
- Supported over 20 international trade shows each year
- Contributed to $1 billion+ in annual exports from Quebec agri-food sector
- Developed GoExport digital platform, enhancing exporter readiness and visibility
- Recognized by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada as a key partner in national trade strategies
Group Export Agri-Food continues to be a cornerstone of Quebec’s global agri-food trade success, equipping local businesses with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive in competitive international markets.